PRODUCT REVIEWS
New BiW Assembly solution
AutoForm Engineering GmbH , a leading supplier of software solutions for stamping and BiW assembly processes , has unveiled its latest software solution , AutoForm Assembly . This solution covers the BiW assembly process chain , combining all critical aspects of assembling parts .
“ AutoForm Assembly enables users to address complex issues in the BiW assembly process before they can arise in production , and expand digitalisation ,” the manufacturer told ISMR .
“ Our solution for BiW assembly supports the entire BiW process chain , which covers early feasibility , process engineering and BiW production . By implementing AutoForm software for the BiW assembly process , users can gain deep insight into the car body manufacturing process , quickly evaluate alternative part and assembly process designs , identify the causes of dimensional deviations and undertake effective countermeasures . The combination of AutoForm Forming and Assembly solutions covers the stamping and BiW assembly processes .”
Users can virtually set up the entire assembly process , including joining and hemming technologies . They can make process modifications by taking into consideration different part insertion orders , changes to pilot and clamping positions , and different sequencing of the joins .
“ With AutoForm Assembly , they can achieve higher product maturity earlier in the development process and reduce the number of product modifications later in tryout and manufacturing . The software allows them to save on costs for tooling and equipment modifications , as well as to reach higher process maturity and greater robustness at tryout and the start of the production ,” explained the company .
Dr . Markus Thomma , CMO of the AutoForm Group , added : “ With AutoForm Assembly , they can achieve tangible benefits in their daily work in terms of both cost and lead time savings .”
AutoForm offers software solutions for sheet metal forming and BiW assembly process . It is a leading provider of software for product manufacturability , tool and material cost calculation , die face design and virtual stamping as well as BiW assembly process optimisation . n
Making an impact
The sheet metal processing specialists at BOSCHERT have given the Compact CNC punching machine a full facelift .
For more options in sheet metal processing , the roller and embossing unit is now on board as standard , and an edge protector prevents long-term damage to the brush table . BOSCHERT can also enclose the hydraulic unit for visual and noise insulation on request . The oil lines are integrated into the frame , enabling the Lörrach-based company to improve the accessibility and appearance of the punch , as well as significantly dampen the noise of operation .
“ Another new feature is the cable duct which accommodates the cables . It is positioned between the control cabinet and the machine . The Compact EVO has a tidy appearance . It increases the level of work safety and reduces operational noise , which is a real stress-reliever for the machine operator . The control and use of the punching machine also focuses on the health of the user , who can control the system ergonomically via the new mobile control panel with its working surfaces and storage areas . A container with rollers facilitates the disposal of the punching waste ,” added the punching specialist .
The Compact EVO is available in five sizes
Left : The resdesigned Compact EVO CNC punch is now quieter than before .
with a working range of between
500 x 1,000mm and 1,500 x 3,000mm . It has a lifting height of 90mm and , if required , automatic clamp adjustment . Depending on the punching head in use , the punch generates pressing forces of 280 or 400 kilonewtons . It is equipped with a TRUMPF tooling system . Two servo motors rotate all tools up to a diameter of 105mm continuously through 360 degrees . Tool indexing is done pneumatically via a locking pin . BOSCHERT developed the Revotool with seven tools specifically for this version .
“ In addition to the six tools which can be used for an envelope circle of 16mm , almost all contours can be cut using the 5 x 30mm cutting punch so , in most cases , complete machining is possible without any tool changing ,” it explained .
The Compact EVO can process sheets with a maximum thickness of 6.4mm , a maximum weight of 200kg and , with noncontact repositioning , up to ten metres in length . The maximum positioning speed of the punch is 60m per minute on both the x and y axes . With repeatability of ± 0.03mm , up to 800 strokes per minute are possible . The system can be optionally upgraded with various extras such as units for Alucobond milling and stud welding , as well as drilling and tapping units for M3 to M12 threads .
“ Digitalisation also provides benefits in sheet metal processing , since users can integrate the Compact EVO into their networks via the integrated interface . This gives them the option of remote maintenance , and they can also program complex CAD parts with the BG Cut software ,” concluded the manufacturer . n
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58 | sheetmetalplus . com | ISMR April 2021